Random ramblings from the cluttered brain of a Brit ex-pat North Devonian trying to keep cool in the steamy summers and warm in the frosty winters of The Great White North.

Sunday, 1 March 2015

Rabbits!

What was the first word that came out of your mouth this morning? Before you even got yourself out of that nice warm bed?

If it was "Rabbits" or "Rabbits Rabbits" or even "White Rabbits" you have ensured good luck for the rest of this month.

It's the first day of March today. When I was a child, I always remembered to say "Rabbits" as soon as I opened my eyes on the first morning of every month. My mum and dad said it too. There are various versions of this superstition. Mum used to say "White rabbits" on the first of January, then "Rabbits" for the next eleven months. And my cousin says you have to say it while looking at the moon.

Why? Many theories. The rabbit or hare was a sacred animal, and perhaps people paid homage on the start of the lunar month, when a rabbit image may be seen in the full moon. A ritual left over from pagan days.

Anyone else mutter "Rabbits" sleepily to themselves this morning? I did. It may only be a superstition but I like to be on the safe side of Fate.

It IS March! Silly me had forgotten, so your blog post today is a DOUBLE pleasure for me! I have never heard of this rabbit superstition. But back in the fifties and sixties when I was growing up, a rabbits foot was what we carried for good luck. Of course I carried one because I had no sense! I never would now, not in a million years. I love your sweet picture of the two huddled bunnies! Did you snap it? Are the rabbit wild?

I have never heard about this rabbit and the month of March – don’t think it’s a French tradition. I hate to tell you when I liked to hear about rabbits - that’s when my mother cooked one. She made the best rabbit stew!

With all of the blood from Ireland and Scotland flowing through my veins, and coming from a somewhat superstitious family, I have never heard this one. I like rabbits, though, if that helps (I'm hoping the very bad winter hasn't hurt them too badly, as I've enjoyed having wild ones in our yard the past couple of years.)

Well, over here on the first of every month kids say, *Pinch punch first of the month & no return* while gently punching the arm. Then another child might respond by saying *Flip kick for being so quick and no return*. Not always nice if they kick!We have a saying that March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb! (Weather wise)Maggie x

What an interesting superstition! Saying “Rabbit” while looking at the moon reminded me of the shadow on the moon which looks like a rabbit pounding rice cake (mocha) to Japanese eyes. Rabbits are so prolific that they might have seen as a symbol of wealth. I’ll say “Rabbits” next month.

About Me

Enjoying life! I'm well over the halfway mark so I'm not wasting any time grumbling. Empty nest Mum to two young men who are embarking on life's journey, and doing it with style, confidence and enthusiasm, accompanied by their lovely wives. And now I'm Nana to three gorgeous little boys and a beautiful little girl. Lucky me!